Coventry & North Warwickshire hockey club have a female chairman for the first time in their 118-year history.

Charlotte Lea replaces David Kettley who has decided to step down after four years at the helm of the club which has over 200 members and runs four men’s and two ladies sides as well as a large junior section.

Charlotte says she is “extremely proud” at her ground-breaking appointment, adding: “The committee and I would like to thank David for the outstanding contribution he has made over the past few years, particularly in relation to developing the junior section.

“He has left some big shoes to fill, but it is a real honour to have been asked to take up this position and I am looking forward to putting everything I can into helping this club develop further and maintain its status as the leading hockey club in the city.”

Kettley said: “This is a major milestone in the history of the club and I wish Charlotte the best of luck in the role.

“It has been a pleasure to head up the club supported by some very dedicated committee members and captains.”

C&NW have confirmed they will be relocating from their former home at the Westwood Club and Reading Rooms on Westwood Heath Road, to Coventry University Sports Ground, less than a mile away.

Men’s first team captain Ben Clarke has also opted to step down and will be replaced by Sam Clarke.